Dear Ash Mount Community,
It has been a lovely week, and a real highlight to be back onsite twice, continuing to see the school take shape. There is something very grounding about being in the space itself , imagining the daily rhythm of learning, the movement of students through the building, and the energy that will soon fill each classroom.
We have also been sharing our weekly site updates on social media, and it has been wonderful to see the response from families. Being able to bring everyone along on the journey, even before the doors open, feels like an important part of building a genuine community.
It has also been encouraging to see schools beginning to prepare for a return to face-to-face learning. Over the past weeks, we have all experienced how quickly things can change, and how important it is to respond thoughtfully and carefully.
I would like to take a moment to recognise the leadership across the UAE during this time. Decisions around safety are not always easy, and often those making them are working with a much wider picture than we can see. There is a level of trust required, and that trust is easier to hold when leadership is visible, consistent, and leads by example. This, in itself, is a powerful lesson for our students, one that speaks to responsibility, integrity, and service.
In many ways, this connects directly to our focus this month: learning that connects to the real world.
At Ash Mount, we believe that learning is most powerful when it helps children understand what is happening around them. Over the past few weeks, we have been collecting stories, reflections, and short videos that capture real-life experiences during this time, including discussions around food and water security, community response, and global interdependence.
These will become part of our Social Studies learning once the school opens, helping students explore real-world issues in a way that is meaningful, relevant, and rooted in lived experience.
This approach reflects the thinking found in International Baccalaureate schools, where learning is connected to real contexts and global issues. Students are encouraged to explore not just what is happening in the world, but why it matters and how it connects to their own lives.
Real-world learning helps children to:
- understand complexity and different perspectives
- see the relevance of what they are learning
- develop empathy and global awareness
- think about how they can contribute positively
At home, families can support this in simple ways:
- talking about current events in an age-appropriate way
- asking children what they notice about the world around them
- encouraging them to think about cause and effect
- discussing how communities respond to challenges
- helping children reflect on what they might do in similar situations
These conversations help children see that learning is not separate from life, it is part of how we understand and navigate the world.
Looking ahead, we are really looking forward to next week’s community events, including our community meal and green design event. These are special opportunities for families who have joined the school to come together, begin building relationships, and take part in shared experiences that reflect the values of Ash Mount.
We are also looking forward to welcoming families to Open Day 3 next Sunday, continuing those important conversations as our community grows.
As always, thank you for your continued support, positivity, and trust as we build Ash Mount together.
Best wishes,
Abigail Fishbourne
Founding Principal
Ash Mount School
